In
January, the University community took time out to pay a special
tribute to its founder. January 6 marked Woodbridge N. Ferris’
150th birthday. A common theme was just how proud Mr. Ferris would
be today if he could see how the legacy he began by founding the
Ferris Institute has flourished. Today, Ferris State University
serves more than 11,000 students. The University’s focus
on career-oriented education remains faithful to Ferris’
original vision.
Like any organization, Ferris State University has
had its ups and downs. When I arrived in 1994, the University
was in the midst of budget cuts and academic program closures,
resulting in significant declines in student enrollment. The mood
on campus was strained, and the campus itself in desperate need
of renovation. Those darker days of 1994 seem distant now. It
has been remarkable to see the incredible renaissance that has
taken place during the past nine years. Although a relatively
large organization, Ferris has demonstrated great agility and
is now a vigorous and dynamic community.
Despite reductions in appropriations from the State
of Michigan, Ferris today is a thriving, forward-looking university.
Virtually all indicators of a healthy university are pointing
up at Ferris. Student enrollment has increased for six straight
years. The academic preparedness of incoming students has risen
dramatically, as has the number of students staying enrolled at
Ferris. A number of new academic programs have been launched.
As for the campus, more than $140 million in capital improvements
have been made, including the flagship Ferris Library for Information,
Technology, and Education. The Michigan Art Walk has brought a
variety of public art to the campus. But perhaps the most important
indicator of Ferris’ health is its culture. The pride demonstrated
by every group associated with the University is very apparent.
It has been a true pleasure serving as the president
of Ferris State University during these past nine years. Ferris
is on a trajectory of growth and vitality. Knowing that Ferris
is in the capable hands of so many dedicated alumni, students
and employees, as well as a committed and forward-thinking Board
of Trustees, gives me great confidence in the University’s
future.
This summer I will embark on a new challenge as the
next president of Utah Valley State College, in Orem, Utah. As
one of the nation’s fastest growing colleges – currently
at 22,000 students, on its way to 40,000 within the next 10 years
– I look forward to working with a new community of professionals
dedicated to the advancement of the next generation, of its local
community and society itself.
Looking to the recent past as a guide to the future,
Ferris is indeed in good hands. Sincerely,
Sincerely,
William
A. Sederburg
President
